The Brunei contingent attend the
opening ceremony of the Asian
Para Games in Guangzhou, China,
on Sunday night. Picture: Courtesy
of Team Brunei

They are in unknown territory, but Team Brunei are set to challenge for honours at the Asian Para Games in Guangzhou, China, today.

Set to make their debut at the inaugural tournament today, Brunei's chef-de-mission Hj Rosmadee Hj Md Daud is optimistic of their chances.

"This is the first time the competition is being held so we do not know what level it is at yet. The records have yet to be set, but our athletes will do their best to win and at least break their personal records," said Hj Rosmadee when contacted by The Brunei Times yesterday.

The inconsistent weather in Guangzhou is another factor that comes into the equation when Brunei take to the court today.

"The weather is kind of fluctuating at the moment. Yesterday (Sunday) during the opening ceremony it was kind of cold at 10 degrees Celsius. On the other hand, today (Monday) it was warmer at 20 degrees Celsius. Though the athletes have been able to adapt to the weather conditions so far, I hope it will be warm tomorrow (Tuesday) so that our athletes can give their best," said the chef-de-mission.

Five of the 10 Brunei athletes representing the country at the Games will compete in their respective events today, with four heading straight into the final stage.

Last year's Asean Para Games (APG) gold-medallist Sibuang Hj Kalong will be the first to step into the arena, competing in the F11 men's discus throw. One of the favourites in Guangzhou, he was Brunei's lone medallist in the last edition of the Far East and South Pacific Games for the Disabled (Fespic) Games in Kuala Lumpur four years ago.